Ballyliffin Golf Club: Glashedy Links Review, Green Fees, Tee Times and Key Info

Ballyliffin Golf Club Glashedy Links Key Information

One of the great joys of a visit to Ballyliffin Golf Club is that is a complete golfing destination with the Glashedy Links in the Top 100 and the excellent Old Course. The Old is really not that old, but nor is the Glashedy Links which opened for play in 1995.

Such is the challenge and stature of this Pat Ruddy design that it was selected to host the 2018 Irish Open, won by Russell Knox and hosted by the Rory Foundation. Both designs here are unquestionably among the very best golf courses in Ireland.

Getting on for 30 years old, there is nonetheless a fresh look and feel to this exciting links which is characterised by its fast-running fairways as well as some punishing bunkers. With some of the holes on higher ground, the views are superb, both internally over the course itself as well as of the surrounding scenery and out the sea.

This is also a serious test of golf which runs over a glorious dunescape. It has large, tricky greens which means that it will test every element of your game. As well as the better views, the exposure of the higher holes also means they are more open to the elements, in particular the wind.

Somewhat unusually for a newish design where there is a huge amount of space, there are just three short holes. However, each of them is very distinctive and memorable, with the 7th the pick of the crop. It is very photogenic, played from way up high down to a green right next to a marshland pond. The views here, and indeed elsewhere, are exceptional.

From start to finish this is a course of constantly high standard, with the left to right closing hole serving as a perfect and demanding climax to your round. This is a very fine and enjoyable course with everything about it on a grand scale. It is also kept in excellent condition.

What The Top 100 Panel Said

Gavyn Cairns

The course is set right on the Atlantic Ocean, and some of the views are simply awesome. The best links greens I have putted on in this Golf Monthly reviewing cycle!

Rob Dunne

I really enjoyed the visit here and would love to come back. The toughness of the opening holes gives a sense of challenge and you realise this place is special. I could spend a week here and wonder at the end of it where all the time went.

Ballyliffin Golf Club Location

Ballyliffin Green Fees

Ballyliffin Golf Club Glashedy Links scorecard

Best Courses Near To Ballyliffin

ROSAPENNA

The excellent resort at nearby Rosapenna now boasts two Top 100 courses. One is the stunning new Tom Doak design, St Patrick’s Links - the other the excellent Pat Ruddy design that opened in 2003, Sandy Hills Links. And if that’s not enough, the Old Tom Morris Links is also very good indeed!

PORTSALON

Benefitting from recent input from former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, the hugely entertaining links at Portsalon offers an exciting and challenging journey through the sandhills. The opening holes hug the shoreline, with the par-4 2nd over the beach and then across a stream a thrilling highlight.

Places To Stay Near Ballyliffin

Ballyliffin Hotel - Book now at Booking.com

The Ballyliffin Hotel offers rooms with satellite TV and power showers, a fine dining restaurant and free parking. Rooms are all accessible by a lift and feature hairdryers, luxury toiletries and tea/coffee making facilities.

The Butterbean - Book now at Booking.com

Just five miles away in the centre of Carndonagh,  this restaurant with stylishly furnished rooms is a short walk from various pubs and amenities.

Ballyliffin Golf Club Glashedy Links Gallery

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Historical Top 100 Rankings UK&I

• 2023/24 - 70
• 2021/22 - 68
• 2019/20 - 68
• 2017/18 - 69
• 2015/16 - 73
• 2013/14 - 74
• 2011/12 - 74
• 2009/10 - 72

Frequently Asked Questions